Savory Cheese and Herb Rolls: A Gourmet Delight for Your Table

Introduction

As I embark on this culinary journey, I’m excited to share with you my recipe for Savory Cheese and Herb Rolls. These delectable morsels are a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients are combined with care and creativity. Rooted in the tradition of European bread making, these rolls elevate the humble dinner roll to new heights of flavor and sophistication.

The history of cheese-filled breads dates back centuries, with variations found in cuisines across the globe. From the Georgian khachapuri to the Italian focaccia, the combination of bread and cheese has long been a favorite among food lovers. My version draws inspiration from these traditions while adding a unique twist with the addition of fresh herbs and a soft cheese filling.

These rolls are perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant dinner parties. The aroma of freshly baked bread, mingled with the scent of herbs and melted cheese, is sure to draw everyone to the table. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to guide you through creating these gourmet rolls with ease and confidence.

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp (7g) instant yeast
• 1 tsp (6g) salt
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
• 2 tbsp (30ml) extra virgin olive oil

For the filling and topping:

• 1 cup (100g) shredded cheese (sharp cheddar or mozzarella work well)
• 2 tbsp fresh herbs, finely chopped (a mix of rosemary, thyme, and basil is delightful)
• 4 oz (113g) soft cheese for filling (cream cheese, goat cheese, or ricotta)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, I combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and salt. I whisk these dry ingredients together to ensure even distribution of the yeast and salt throughout the flour.
2. I create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the warm water and olive oil. Using a wooden spoon or my hands, I mix everything together until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Once the dough comes together, I turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. I knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky to the touch. This kneading process develops the gluten, which gives the rolls their delightful texture.
4. I gently fold in the shredded cheese and chopped herbs, kneading for another minute to ensure even distribution. The cheese and herbs not only add flavor but also create pockets of savory goodness throughout the rolls.
5. I shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, turning once to coat the surface. I cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Shaping and Filling the Rolls

6. Once the dough has risen, I gently punch it down to release the air. I divide the dough into 12-15 equal portions, depending on how large I want my rolls to be. I shape each portion into a smooth ball by tucking the edges underneath and rolling it gently on the countertop.
7. I place the dough balls on a greased baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each one to allow for expansion during the second rise and baking.
8. Using my thumb or the back of a spoon, I create a deep indentation in the center of each dough ball. This is where the soft cheese filling will nestle, creating pockets of creamy goodness in each roll.
9. I carefully spoon about 1-2 teaspoons of the soft cheese into each indentation. I like to use a mixture of cream cheese and goat cheese for a tangy, creamy filling that complements the herbs and shredded cheese in the dough.
10. I cover the filled rolls loosely with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30 minutes. During this time, they’ll puff up slightly, embracing the cheese filling.

Baking to Perfection

11. While the rolls are on their second rise, I preheat my oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is at the perfect temperature when it’s time to bake.
12. Once the rolls have risen and the oven is hot, I carefully place the baking sheet in the center of the oven. I bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, keeping a close eye on them towards the end of the baking time.
13. The rolls are done when they’ve turned a beautiful golden brown color and the cheese filling is bubbly and slightly browned. The aroma of fresh bread, melted cheese, and aromatic herbs should be filling your kitchen by now.
14. I remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the rolls cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes. This brief cooling period allows the structure of the rolls to set, making them easier to handle.
15. After 5 minutes, I transfer the rolls to a wire rack to cool slightly. While these rolls are delicious at room temperature, I find they’re at their absolute best when served warm, with the cheese still gooey and the herbs fragrant.

Serving and Storing

These Savory Cheese and Herb Rolls are versatile and can be served in numerous ways:

1. As a dinner roll: They’re perfect alongside soups, stews, or roasted meats.
2. For breakfast or brunch: Try them with scrambled eggs and smoked salmon for a gourmet start to your day.
3. As an appetizer: Serve them on their own or with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
4. For lunch: Split them in half and use as the base for mini sandwiches.

If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my household!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 1 roll (based on 12 rolls per recipe)

• Calories: Approximately 220-240 kcal
• Total Fat: 10-12g
• Saturated Fat: 4-5g
• Cholesterol: 20-25mg
• Sodium: 300-350mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 25-28g
• Dietary Fiber: 1-2g
• Sugars: 1-2g
• Protein: 8-10g

Please note that these values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: About 2 hours and 20 minutes (including rising time)

Conclusion

Creating these Savory Cheese and Herb Rolls is more than just following a recipe; it’s an experience that engages all your senses. From the tactile pleasure of kneading the dough to the aromatic blend of herbs and cheese filling your kitchen, every step is a celebration of the art of baking.

What makes these rolls truly special is their versatility. The combination of shredded cheese in the dough and soft cheese in the center creates a dynamic flavor profile that can be easily customized to your taste. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheese combinations or herb mixtures – each variation brings its own unique character to the table.

Remember, the key to perfect rolls lies in patience during the rising process and careful attention during baking. With practice, you’ll develop a feel for the dough and be able to create these rolls with ease, impressing family and friends with your baking skills.

These Savory Cheese and Herb Rolls are more than just a side dish; they’re a testament to the joy of homemade bread. They bring a touch of gourmet flair to any meal, elevating everyday dining into something special. So roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked, cheese-filled rolls. Happy baking!